Marco

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Marco's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Take the train up through the Tijuca Forest for incredible views of the city below. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the vibrant Santa Teresa neighborhood afterwards.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling streets of Lapa, known for its colorful architecture and lively atmosphere. Stop by the Selarón Steps, a vibrant mosaic stairway filled with stunning artwork. Grab lunch at a local eatery and indulge in some traditional Brazilian feijoada.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of the coastline. Consider taking a sunset cable car ride to capture breathtaking photos. Conclude the day with dinner at a beachside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and Caipirinhas.

day 2
Beach Day at Copacabana
morning
:

Enjoy an early morning stroll along the famous Copacabana beach, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Grab a fresh pineapple juice from one of the beach vendors as you soak up the sun. Take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean to invigorate your senses.

afternoon
:

Find a spot on the sandy beach to relax with a good book or people-watch as locals engage in beach volleyball and other activities. Enjoy a beachside lunch of grilled shrimp or a traditional Brazilian pastel. As the temperature rises, consider renting a paddleboard for a leisurely exploration of the coastline.

evening
:

As evening falls, join locals and tourists alike for a vibrant beachside sunset. Enjoy refreshing cocktails at a popular bar along the promenade, mixing with the lively crowd. Savor a dinner of traditional Brazilian barbecue at a nearby churrascaria.

day 3
Exploring the Botanical Garden
morning
:

Spend your morning wandering through the beautiful Jardim Botânico, home to thousands of plant species and stunning landscapes. Take time to appreciate the tranquil environment and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the giant water lilies in the garden’s ponds.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Museum of Modern Art for a dose of culture, where you can appreciate contemporary Brazilian art. Enjoy lunch at the museum's café, surrounded by creativity and inspiring views. Following your artistic exploration, take a leisurely walk through the upscale neighborhoods of Ipanema and Leblon.

evening
:

Head back to Ipanema beach to enjoy another stunning sunset, often considered the best in the city. After sunset, explore the local nightlife, starting with a cocktail at a trendy bar. Later, enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant featuring traditional Bahian cuisine.

day 4
Day Trip to Petropolis
morning
:

Take a scenic drive to the historic city of Petropolis, known as the Imperial City nestled in the mountains. Explore the stunning Imperial Museum, housed in a former palace, to learn about Brazil's royal history. Immerse yourself in the beautiful architecture and lush gardens of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the charming streets filled with shops and cafes, stopping for a light lunch at a cozy café. Visit the gorgeous Crystal Palace, a glass structure set amid lovely gardens, perfect for a mid-afternoon break. Spend some time exploring more of Petropolis' cultural hotspots, such as the Cathedral of St. Peter of Alcantara.

evening
:

Make your way back to Rio as the day winds down, enjoying the view of the mountains under the dusk sky. Grab dinner at a local steakhouse upon returning, treating yourself to some of the best meat cuts Brazil has to offer. End the night with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

day 5
Cultural Immersion in Santa Teresa
morning
:

Begin your day in the charming neighborhood of Santa Teresa, known for its steep hills and bohemian spirit. Visit local art studios and galleries that showcase the work of Brazilian artists. Stop by a quaint café for a traditional Brazilian coffee and pastry.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon visiting the Museu Chácara do Céu and soaking in the panoramic views of the city. Navigate the narrow, winding streets filled with colorful homes and local shops, picking up unique souvenirs. Lunch at a local tavern will introduce you to authentic Brazilian cuisine.

evening
:

Return in the evening to Santa Teresa for a meal at one of its lively restaurants, which often feature live music. Engage with locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance. Cap off the night with a stroll through the streets to experience the neighborhood's unique nightlife.

day 6
Historical Tour of Downtown Rio
morning
:

Spend the morning in Downtown Rio, starting at the stunning Municipal Theater. Explore the historic streets and marvel at the impressive architecture of colonial buildings. Visit the nearby National Museum of Fine Arts to appreciate masterpieces from Brazilian and international artists.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch in the downtown area, enjoying traditional snacks like coxinhas and pão de queijo at a local bar. Afterward, visit the intriguing Selarón Steps if you haven't already, soaking in the vibrant colors and artistic surroundings. Discover the modern art vibe in the neighborhood by visiting galleries and local boutiques.

evening
:

As evening approaches, explore the lively nightlife in Lapa, known for its samba clubs and lively bars. Enjoy dinner at a lively eatery, where traditional Brazilian music fills the air. Afterward, dance the night away at a local samba club, experiencing the rhythm and culture of Brazil.

day 7
Adventure in Tijuca National Park
morning
:

Kickstart your day with an invigorating hike through Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban rainforests in the world. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the stunning vistas as you make your way to the park’s many trails. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and perhaps even a few playful monkeys.

afternoon
:

After your hike, treat yourself to a picnic lunch surrounded by the lush greenery of the park. Consider visiting the picturesque Cascatinha Taunay waterfall for a refreshing dip. Engage with locals who frequent the area and take in the beauty of this natural gem.

evening
:

Return to the city and have a hearty dinner at a traditional Brazilian restaurant. Reflect on your day while enjoying a local dessert, such as brigadeiros, while listening to the sounds of live bossa nova music. End your evening with a leisurely stroll through the tree-lined streets of the city.

day 8
Shopping and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day at one of Rio's popular shopping districts, such as Rua das Pedras in Búzios, or spend the morning exploring the upscale shops in Ipanema. Browse local boutiques for souvenirs, clothing, and unique handmade items. Don’t forget to grab breakfast at a quaint café nearby.

afternoon
:

After shopping, relax at a beachside spa with treatments that utilize local ingredients and methods. Enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant, treating yourself to some light bites and refreshing drinks. Spend the afternoon lounging under the sun, taking in all the beach has to offer.

evening
:

As your day winds down, find a local spot renowned for seafood and enjoy a sumptuous dinner overlooking the ocean. As night falls, visit a beach bar for live music, enjoying the laid-back coastal vibe. Reflect on your day with a refreshing cocktail, basking in the warmth of the evening air.

day 9
Farewell to Rio
morning
:

On your final morning, reflect on your experiences while enjoying breakfast at a café with a view of the beach. Take one last stroll along the coastline, soaking in the sights and sounds of Rio de Janeiro. Consider picking up any last-minute souvenirs to remember your stay.

afternoon
:

Before departure, visit any favorite spots one last time, maybe revisiting the lively streets of Ipanema for some final shopping. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, relishing in the flavors of Brazil once more. Capture some final photographs to document your memories.

evening
:

As the sun sets on your Brazilian adventure, enjoy a final dinner before heading to the airport. Celebrate with one last taste of the local cuisine that has made your trip special. Depart Rio with unforgettable memories and newfound love for this vibrant city.

Discover Marco

Read more in our Marco 2025 Travel Guide.

Marco Travel Guide